Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of creamy potato soup but short on time? This Idahoan Instant Potato Soup recipe is your answer! Forget lengthy prep times and complicated techniques; this easy recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch, this homemade potato soup is sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup milk or cream (for extra richness)
- 1 package (4.5 oz) Idahoan Instant Mashed Potatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, chives, sour cream
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
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Add the broth and milk: Pour in the chicken broth and milk (or cream). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This creates the base of your delicious potato soup.
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Incorporate the potatoes: Gradually whisk in the Idahoan Instant Mashed Potatoes, ensuring no lumps form. Stir continuously until the potatoes are fully dissolved and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
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Season and simmer: Add the dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the hot potato soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, or a dollop of sour cream. This simple yet delicious soup is ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for the Best Idahoan Instant Potato Soup:
- For a smoother soup: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to achieve extra creaminess.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Boost the flavor: Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding diced carrots, celery, or potatoes during the sautéing stage.
Variations:
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Bacon and Potato Soup: Cook some bacon until crispy, reserve the bacon bits for garnish, and add the bacon grease to the saucepan before sautéing the onions for extra flavor.
- Creamy Roasted Garlic Potato Soup: Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Idahoan Instant Potato Soup recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or even a light supper. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful homemade cooking experience!